She might play a superheroine on television, but Melissa Benoist is a superhero off-screen too as she’s recently opened up about being a survivor of domestic violence. #istandwithmelissa
She’s an actress and singer who has been lucky enough to play Carole King on Broadway, but behind her bright smile Melissa Benoist hid a dark secret: she was abused by a former partner. On Instagram earlier this week, the Supergirl star opened up about a dark time in her past. Domestic violence is no laughing matter and it doesn’t matter if you’re famous, female, or male. It can happen to anyone.
Benoist did not reveal the name of her abuser, but if the timeline matches up, she may be talking about a certain ex who appeared early in Supergirl‘s run. We assume this given the hints she drops.
Of the relationships she has made public, her partners have been older than her. Melissa mentioned her ex was younger than her.
Her move to speak out has sparked a social media movement which has started trending: #istandwithmelissa. This powerful message was been backed by both men and women. She’s also being praised by her co-stars on Supergirl, especially David Harwood who plays her father-figure and mentor, J’onn J’onzz.
Harwood was joined by Andrea Brooks who plays Eve on the show and Nicole Maines who plays Nia/Dreamer. As a fandom, we need to show Melissa our love and support. We also need to show her that she did the right thing in speaking out.
Melissa, if you’re reading this, just know that we, your fans support you 1000%. What happened to you was horrible and it should never happen to anyone. We love you and remember, you’re strong and you’re amazing.
